Blouberg Nature Reserve, situated in the Limpopo Province, blankets the eastern foothills of the Blouberg Mountain and has a surface area of 9360 ha. The Blouberg Mountain is an inselberg forming part of the Soutpanberg chain but separated from it by approximately 30 kilometers of relatively flat plain. The highest peak of 2151 meters is also the highest point of the entire Soutpansberg range, and protrudes 1200 meters from the surrounding plain. The Reserve has a birdlist of over 225 species, and lists of over 100 are not unusual for a day.

Habitats

Although primarily bushveld, sixteen different veld types have been identified on the Reserve, ranging from Sour Mixed Bushveld through Arid Sweet Bushveld to an Afro-montane "Fynbos" (similar to and allied with cape Fynbos) on top of the mountain.

Facilities

Birding

1. A Vulture Breeding Colony, situated on the southern cliffs of the mountain, is one of the largest breeding colonies of the endangered Cape Vulture in southern Africa. There are two nesting sites between about 800 meters apart. The office will provide detailed directions and maps if required.

General

All drives are recommended as the diversity of flora in the Reserve ensures good birding generally. Tambotie Bush Camp is situated on the eastern side of the Reserve, and offers rustic accommodation for a maximum of eight people. The reserve runs a fully equipped Rehabilitation Centre for Vultures and Raptors, Reptile Breeding Centre and Education Centre, situated on the western side of the Reserve.

Drive north from Pietersburg on the R521, the Dendron/Vivo road and when entering Vivo at the Schiermonikoog turn-off, turn left (dirt road). Keep on driving for + 10km a side junction to Tolwe will appear on right, turn right and keep on driving for another 10km the gate of the Reserve will be on your left.